Rallies call for more public library funding

Rallies across the five boroughs are demanding more funding for public libraries.

The library in Coney Island usually closes its doors on Monday, but officials say that $65 million among the three New York City library systems could change that.

"The money would add staff, which in turn would allow us to be open longer, which is probably the single most important thing," said Linda Johnson, Brooklyn Public Library president and CEO. "We would also do more programming and put more money in our collections."

A small percentage of libraries citywide are open six or seven days a week. Patrons say that having the libraries open for an extra day would help those who don't have computer access and give students a place to do school projects.

Johnson, as well as the other library directors, will testify at a hearing next week in hopes of convincing the City Council that funding is necessary for six-day service at the city's libraries.